Mill Fire Public Meeting Planned, Closure Advisory

A public meeting is planned at the Stonyford Grange Hall today, July 9, at 7 p.m. Members of NorCal Team 2, the Mendocino National Forest, Colusa County Sheriff and PG&E will provide the most current fire information and operational updates at that time.

“We recognize that nearby residents are understandably concerned with the fire showing significant growth,” said Tim Fike, NorCal Team 2 Deputy Incident Commander. “We want to try to share the best information we have at this time.”

The Mill Fire started on July 7 and the cause is under investigation. The fire has grown significantly in the past few days despite excellent firefighting efforts. Fire growth has been driven by unseasonably high temperatures, low relative humidity, and erratic and gusting winds unique to this area.

Firefighters continue to see significant fire activity on the firelines. Approximately 360 people are assigned to the incident. The fire is 10 percent contained.

A closure order is in effect for the Mendocino National Forest for all roads, trails and recreational facilities within the Grindstone Ranger District. This area is a very popular area for visitors to the forest, including off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts and those looking forward to the upcoming archery season.

“Public and firefighter safety is our highest priority,” said Mendocino National Forest Supervisor Sherry Tune. “The Mendocino is a wonderful place to recreate and there are many other sites where visitors can enjoy the forest safely while we are fighting the Mill Fire.”

Evacuations are in effect for the communities of Fouts Springs, Bonnie View, and Board Camp Springs and campgrounds within the Upper Letts Lake area. Portions of the community of Stonyford are under voluntary evacuation. The Lake View Loop Road to the Goat Mountain Road is under voluntary evacuation. The Fouts Springs Road (Road M10) is closed at Stonyford. The Goat Mountain Road is closed at the Stonyford Lodoga Road. An advisory has been issued to residents west of the Stonyford Lodoga Road between Stonyford and Goat Mountain Road to be prepared for a possible evacuation.

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